Alcohol and the Reservation: Anheuser-Busch’s View

We care about the tragic problems of tribal members on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and are greatly concerned about alcohol abuse there and anywhere. When our products become associated with a problem, it is damaging to all of us as parents and members of communities, and to us as a company; it’s the last thing we want for our consumers or our products.

Mr. Kristof asserts that we have a business model based on violating tribal rules. That is simply not the case. Beer producers are prohibited from selling beer directly to retailers or consumers in Nebraska, and we obey all laws wherever we operate or sell beer. We cannot control the actions on the tribe’s reservation, yet that in no way diminishes our desire to end these problems.

We take seriously our role as a leader in alcohol responsibility and support countless efforts with our wholesalers across the country to reduce problem drinking, including under-age drinking and drinking and driving.

This problem involves deeply complex, societal, cultural and sometimes physiological issues that are often heightened during difficult economic conditions.

Making real progress requires people to come together, share solutions and support those who need it. We care about the people of Pine Ridge and hope that together we can make a difference in addressing these problems.